Diagnosing bursitis

Usually your doctor will be able to diagnose bursitis from what you tell them and from looking at the area. An X-ray won't help, as X-rays don't show soft tissue, such as a bursa. Your GP might send you for an ultrasound scan if the affected bursa is deeper into your body and difficult to feel.

Your doctor might use a needle to take a sample of fluid from the swelling if they think that you have an infection or a type of arthritis. This fluid can help them to make the right diagnosis.